Easy Outdoor Experiences for the Whole Family

In Vancouver, nature flows through the city with forest trails steps from sidewalks and ocean breezes carrying the scent of salt and cedar. Whether you are hiking past old-growth trees, tiptoeing across a suspension bridge, or scanning the waves for whales, it’s easy to take your family on an outdoor adventure.

Hike to Beaver Lake in Stanley Park

Venture into the ancient forests of Stanley Park to explore family-friendly trails that wander past old-growth trees, mossy outcrops, and lush fern glades. Beaver Lake, in the centre of the park, makes a great destination. Listen for birdsong in this rich wetland ringed with lily pads. You might spy many species of songbirds and waterfowl, as well as great blue herons. The highlight for kids is the possibility of spotting beavers. Even if the beavers are not around, it’s easy to spot the beaver’s lodge in the lake (it looks like an island). The City of Vancouver’s Beaver Lake Nature Walk brochure has info on several stops of interest along the way, and directions to the lake from the Stanley Park Seawall.

After you’ve worked up an appetite on your hike, make your way around Lost Lagoon to the Stanley Park Brewing Company where you can refuel. This craft brewery is hidden in the park’s lush landscapes and has outdoor seating near the lawn so kids can burn off extra energy. While they specialize in housemade beer and casual West Coast pub fare like Wagyu beef potstickers, spicy ahi poke crisps, and beer-brined chicken wings.

Brave the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Family members of all ages will love the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. The 127-metre-long bridge sways 70 metres above the rushing waters of the Capilano River churning through a granite canyon. After you enjoy the views from the bridge, follow the paths between towering Western red cedar and Douglas fir trees to brave the Cliffwalk, a gravity-defying walkway cantilevered over the edge of the canyon. And don’t miss the Treetops Adventure, where platforms and suspension bridges carry you through the forest canopy high above the ground.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park also has several kid-friendly features: You can take part in the Rainforest Explorers program, a self-guided adventure through the trees that features puzzles and challenges. At Raptor’s Ridge, you can meet and learn about majestic owls, speedy falcons, and other impressive birds of prey. The park also has lots of snack options that little ones will love. Get a sweet treat at Beary Waffles, ice cream and fudge at The Trading Post, or Capilano Otter Balls (spherical mini pancakes with maple syrup) at The Cabin. If you’re looking for something more substantial, the counter-service Logger’s Grill and the sit-down Cliffhouse Restaurant both have kids’ menus.

Explore the Peak of Vancouver at Grouse Mountain

Soar above the forest on the Skyride Gondola and watch the city shrink below you as you ascend to Grouse Mountain, known as the Peak of Vancouver. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you follow the paved Grouse Loop Trail around the mountain top through fragrant coastal rainforest and past lofty viewpoints where you can gaze down on the city and ocean far below you.

Detour onto the Eco Walk Trail through the rainforest to learn about local subalpine flora and fauna. You can hike this short trail on your own or sign up for a 45-minute guided eco-walk. Don’t miss the Grizzly Bear Refuge, where you can watch rescued grizzlies, Grinder and Coola, splashing in their pond or napping under trees. Little ones will love the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure, an elevated adventure playground featuring treehouses, cargo nets, balance games, and wobbly bridges that is best for ages 3 to 8.

Stop for a snack at Beaver Tails. These iconic Canadian fried pastries are hand-stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail and come with delectable toppings like cinnamon, chocolate spread, or maple butter.

Wander Through VanDusen Botanical Garden

Sprawling across 22 hectares (55 acres) in the centre of Vancouver, Van Dusen Botanical Garden is a natural oasis. The wide lawns are a great place for kids to run and play. Little ones will also enjoy exploring the hidden corners of the garden to find turtles sunning themselves on rocks, tunnels through the trees, and trickling waterfalls. The highlight for both kids and adults is “getting lost” in the Elizabethan Hedge Maze at the rear of the garden.

Most of the garden paths are paved or crushed gravel, making it easy to push a stroller. You can also borrow a Sensory Support Kit that includes tinted glasses and noise-cancelling earmuffs if you have neuro-divergent family members. Make a day of it by stopping by the Garden Cafe in the Visitor Centre to pick up one of their picnic baskets, then sprawl out on the Great Lawn in the dappled shade of leafy cherry and maple trees.

Go Whale Watching

Climb aboard one of Vancouver’s whale watching vessels, then keep your eyes on the waves. As the wind whips through your hair and gulls call out overhead, you might spot orcas jumping, seals lounging on rocks, porpoises darting through the spray, and sea lions barking. There are several whale watching tour operators in Vancouver and nearby Richmond, so you can choose a tour length and boat style that is best for your family. Older kids will love feeling the ocean breeze and the occasional splash on an open zodiac tour, while families with younger children will appreciate the comfort of semi-enclosed vessels with on-board washrooms.

If your tour leaves from Richmond, plan some time to explore the historic fishing village of Steveston near the docks. Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf to purchase the freshest seafood. Depending on the season, you can buy salmon, rockfish, crab, shrimp, urchin, octopus, and more. Or order fish and chips from Pajo’s. They have been frying up fish at their floating restaurant since 1985. On a warm day, you’ll find six ice cream options within a few blocks of the wharf. Open since 1989, Timothy’s Frozen Yogurt is the classic choice, and you can smell the mouth-watering aroma of their freshly-made waffle cones long before you arrive.